Global

Environment Polls

Washington, D.C. - About half of Americans have heard about the ongoing drought in the Western U.S. If their state experienced a drought, majorities of the public would support a wide range of water use restrictions. Two in ten (22%) Americans say the drought has personally affected them significantly or somewhat. For the Reuters article, please click here.

Toronto, ON – A new Ipsos poll conducted on behalf of the Western Producer and RBC has revealed that while one in three (34%) farmers polled plan to make changes to the ownership of their farm in the coming years, and most (62%) intend to transition ownership to a family member or partner, only three in ten (30%) of these farm owners are doing any formal succession planning to ensure a smooth transition to the next generation.

Toronto, ON – Canadian kids aged 8 to 11 rate ‘animals becoming extinct’ as the environmental issue that is most important to them, according to a new Ipsos poll conducted on behalf of Earth Rangers. Specifically, 69% of kids surveyed rated ‘animals becoming extinct’ as being ‘very important’ to them, placing it ahead of other issues such as litter (63%), air pollution (61%), water pollution (61%), forests being cut down (56%), animal habitat loss (56%), wasting energy (49%), climate change (39%), pesticides (22%) and overfishing (21%). Interestingly, those kids involved in the Earth Rangers program were more likely to state that each issue was very important to them.

Washington, D.C. - 61% agree that eating antibiotic free meat is important to them. However, only 15% say they eat antibiotic free “most of the time” when dining out and 24% say the buy antibiotic-free meet “most of the time” for cooking at home.

New York, NY – Eighth graders across the United States are not only widely aware of the terms ‘global warming’ and ‘climate change,’ but also near universally agree (94%) that climate change is real, according to a new study conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of Avaaz. Further, over eight in ten (85%) agree that human activity significantly contributes to climate change.

Washington, D.C. - These are the findings from an Ipsos poll conducted for Thomson Reuters on U.S. oil production. Topline results are available for download on the right side of the page. For the Reuters article, please click here.

Toronto, ON – A new survey conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of Bruce Power indicates that Bruce, Grey, and Huron county residents continue to show strong support for Bruce Power’s plans to refurbish nuclear reactors at the Bruce Power facility.

Washington, D.C. - These are the findings from an Ipsos poll conducted for Thomson Reuters on U.S. oil production. Topline results are available for download on the right side of the page. For the Reuters article, please click here.

Vancouver, BC –Three quarters (73%) of British Columbians are supportive of the Renewable and Low Carbon Fuel Requirements Regulation, including one in four (24%) who strongly support it, according to a survey conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of the Western Canada Biodiesel Association.

Toronto, ON – A new survey conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of Ontario Electronic Stewardship (OES) reveals that while most millennials see themselves as eco-conscious and avid recyclers of most reusable products, few recycle one of their major daily items: their used electronics.

Calgary, AB – A new Ipsos Reid poll, conducted on behalf of The Alberta Energy Efficiency Alliance (AEEA), shows that most Albertans support the Government of Alberta requiring stronger greenhouse gas performance from industrial facilities.

Vancouver, BC – A new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Resource Works shows that most British Columbians believe the natural resource sector is good for the province. The poll also reveals that more could be done to demonstrate that BC’s natural resource sector is a world leader in terms of innovation and sustainability. British Columbians also think that both industry and government could do more to reduce gaps in perception of the sector held by urban versus rural residents.

Toronto, ON – A new survey conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of Bruce Power indicates that Bruce, Grey, and Huron county residents continue to show strong support for Bruce Power’s plans to refurbish nuclear reactors at Bruce.

Toronto, ON – According to a third annual herbicide resistance poll conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of BASF Canada Inc., most growers share a concern about weed resistance and plan to combat it by changing their growing practices, although less than half suspect they have these troublesome weeds.

Toronto, ON – In June 2013, severe flooding displaced over 100,000 Albertans in what has been called the worst flooding in the province’s history. With damages estimated at over $5 billion dollars and the activation of 32 local states of emergency, Ipsos’ media partner, CTV News, has declared the Alberta Floods the 4th biggest news story in Canada in 2013.

Calgary, AB – Ipsos Reid conducted 50 telephone interviews with Calgary based businesses with 100 or more employees within Alberta and had been directly impacted by the flood.
In a study fielded by Ipsos Reid on behalf of RallyEngine, 80% of organizations stated to have had an emergency plan prior to the 2013 Alberta Flood. The majority (81%) of organizations rated their plans as effective. Of those who rated the plan effective, 19% said they were able to reach employees or communicate well, and 9% said that people knew what to do in the case of an emergency. Of those who said their plans were ineffective, 67% said there were gaps in contact information.

Toronto, ON – A new survey conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) reveals that most Canadians believe the country’s oil refineries should emphasize using local product before using imported oil from foreign sources.

Toronto, ON – With pipelines being in the news given US reluctance to approve or reject the Keystone XL Pipeline from Alberta to Texas and the effective killing of an idea to run the pipeline west to the BC coast, most Canadians are worried about the potential financial implications of U.S. President Barack Obama putting the final halt to the divisive pipeline deal.

Toronto, ON – A study conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of BASF reveals that most Western Canadian growers (from Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba) are not following the industry best practice of growing canola once every four years in a rotation with other crops, with most growing the crop too often.

Toronto – A new poll in 16 developed nations finds a majority (61%) disagree (28% very much, 33% somewhat) that companies that contract their clothing to be manufactured in another part of the world cannot be expected to be held responsible for things being done somewhere else unless they actually owned and operated themselves. The poll was conducted among 12,484 adults in 16 countries by global research company Ipsos on behalf of CTV News.

Toronto, ON – Awareness and support for Canada’s supply management system is high among the country’s mayors, deputy mayors, and reeves, according to a new study conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of the Egg Farmers of Canada.

Toronto, ON – Weeds are a constant concern for many farmers, and it appears that most believe they’re getting tougher to control, according to a new poll conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of BASF Canada Inc. Six in ten (63%) Canadian growers ‘agree’ (16% strongly/47% somewhat) that ‘weeds in my field are getting tougher to control’, which is up 7 points from the first wave of the poll in March 2012. Less than four in ten (37%) farmers ‘disagree’ (8% strongly/29% somewhat) that weeds are getting tougher to control, down 7 points from early last year.

Toronto, ON – With Family Day coming up for many parts of the country, many Canadians might be using it as an opportunity to reconnect with the Great Outdoors, considering the importance of nature to Canadians and their families, according to a new survey conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of Nature Conservancy Canada. Half (50%) of Canadians ‘strongly agree’ that ‘natural areas are important for my family’s well-being’, with nearly the rest of Canadians (47%) ‘somewhat’ agreeing.. Only 3% of Canadians ‘disagree’ (1% strongly/3% somewhat) that natural areas are important for their families well-being.

Toronto, ON – Canadians believe the Harper government could be doing more to protect the environment, according to a new poll conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of Postmedia News and Global Television. Only two in five (39%) Canadians ‘agree’ (6% strongly/32% somewhat) that ‘the Harper government is doing a good job in protecting Canada’s environment’. Three in five (61%), however, ‘disagree’ (29% strongly/32% somewhat) that the Harper government is good job protecting the environment.

Ottawa, ON – Three in five (62%) Canadians feel that the federal government is doing too little to ensure the survival of Canada’s species at risk and should strengthen and better enforce Canada’s endangered species laws, according to a new poll conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of the Canadian Wildlife Federation. One third (34%) think that the federal government is doing enough and is effectively protecting species at risk with tools like the Species at Risk Act, while only four percent say the federal government is doing too much.

Toronto, ON – A new poll of wheat farmers in Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of BASF reveals that a vast majority (85%) of Western wheat farmers believe the new marketing system will be beneficial for their business. Just two in ten (15%), however, believe that the new wheat marketing system will be ‘harmful’ (3% extremely/13% somewhat) to their business.

Toronto, ON – Americans are more likely to recycle everyday, household items compared to electronic items, according to a new poll conducted by Ipsos Marketing on behalf of Call2Recycle. Three-quarters of Americans say they’ve recycled aluminum or steel cans (76%) or plastic bottles or containers (72%) in the past year, while another seven in ten (71%) have recycled paper or cardboard in the past year.

New York, NY – Nine in ten (89%) U.S. adults agree that renewable energy sources, like solar energy, should be a bigger part of America's energy supply in the future, according to a new Ipsos poll of over 1,000 adults conducted on behalf of Sungevity. Many see both economic and environmental benefits wider use of renewable energy, with 81% agreeing that that reducing our dependency on coal, oil, gas and nuclear energy is the right thing to do for the environment and the economy. Similarly, seven in ten (72%) say that jobs created in the solar energy industry are better for our economy and our environment than jobs created in the coal, oil, gas and nuclear industries.

Toronto, ON – If they were a planner for their community and could design infrastructure for the needs of their community ten years from now, three quarters (73%) of Ontarians would place more emphasis on public transit compared to 3% who would place less emphasis on it and 24% who wouldn’t do more or less, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll released on behalf of the Ontario Professional Planners Institute.

Toronto – A new poll in 16 developed nations finds a majority (61%) disagree (28% very much, 33% somewhat) that companies that contract their clothing to be manufactured in another part of the world cannot be expected to be held responsible for things being done somewhere else unless they actually owned and operated themselves. The poll was conducted among 12,484 adults in 16 countries by global research company Ipsos on behalf of CTV News.

Toronto, ON – Three quarters (75%) of Canadian farmers who grow crops from Alberta through Quebec say that herbicide-resistant weeds are impacting their bottom line, and are having a negative impact on the value of their crops and the amount of money they make, according to a new Ipsos poll conducted on behalf of BASF. Further, three in ten (27%) maintain that the impact is sizeable, saying it is ‘large’ (7%) or ‘moderate’ (20%), while nearly half (47%) say herbicide-resistant weeds are having a ‘small’ impact on their bottom line. Just one quarter (25%) believe that their bottom line is not impacted by herbicide-resistant weeds.

Vancouver, BC – More British Columbian tree fruit growers are likely to increase their acreage of apples than decrease according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of the BC Fruit Growers' Association. Specifically, 15% of growers claim that they will be increasing their acreage dedicated to growing apples over the next 5 years, compared to only 6% who say they will decrease their amount of land for this fruit over the same time period.

Toronto, ON – A new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce shows a majority of Canadians believe it is possible to respect the environment while increasing oil and gas production. Two-thirds (65%) of Canadians agree that “it is possible to increase oil and gas production while protecting the environment at the same time,” including one-quarter (26%) who ‘agree strongly’. One-quarter (25%) of Canadians disagree with this idea (9% ‘disagree strongly’).

Vancouver, BC – Retailers' activities in helping to preserve and protect the environment are visibly still very relevant to British Columbians. According to a recent study by Ipsos Reid conducted in the spring of 2012, a large majority (71%) say that retailers' actions are either very or somewhat important in deciding where to shop. The importance placed on this aspect of a retailer's performance has remained high each time it has been tested (67% in 2011; 72% in 2010; and 74% in 2009).

Vancouver, BC – An Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Pacific Carbon Trust1 shows that a solid majority of British Columbians support their provincial government taking a variety of actions on climate change.

New York, NY – A quarter of respondents (25%) report that they always proactively take steps to green their home or lifestyle, such as recycling, driving energy efficient vehicles, weatherizing their home, using eco-friendly products, etc, according to a new Ipsos poll conducted on behalf of RetailMeNot.com. An additional 60% say that they sometimes take these actions, while just 15% say that they never do.

Toronto, ON – Many Canadians are missing water conservation opportunities, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating. As a case in point, when it comes to which trait they value more in a shower head, fully one half (50%) value high water pressure over high-efficiency water usage (50%).

Toronto, ON – When it comes to winter weather in Canada, one quarter (23%) of Canadians say they love the cold weather, bring on the snow and cold, crisp air, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Quaker. While one half (49%) say that they can take the cold and snowy winter weather for only short periods of time, three in ten (28%) say they simply hate winter and would rather be on a beach in the Caribbean. Men in particular are more likely to love the snow and cold crisp air (28%) compared to women (19%).

Toronto, ON – Canadians appear to be all set for a green Christmas this year, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Waste Management. Many are taking steps to reduce the impact that they have on the environment over the holidays by doing things like recycling, reducing and conserving energy.

New York, NY - Procter & Gamble Professional commissioned Ipsos Public Affairs to conduct a national survey among managers of cleaning operations from several industries with the objective of exploring their perceptions, attitudes and behaviors about their business and how they are adapting to the challenges brought on by the current economic climate.

New York, NY – In an Ipsos Public Affairs survey of over 1,000 U.S. adults, 4% of all respondents nationally report that their home suffered some damage caused by hurricanes/tropical storms Irene and Lee, including 3% who incurred water damage and 2% wind damage. In the Northeast, the proportions are much higher, with 12% reporting damage to their home as a result of these storms, including 10% who mentioned water damage and 4% wind damage.

Washington, DC - A new Ipsos poll conducted behalf of Stanford University and Reuters explores American public opinion on the environment and global warming. A summary of key findings are listed below and the full report is available for download on the right.

Toronto, ON - The Ontario Responsible Sourcing Study was constructed by Ipsos Reid for the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) meeting of August 22, 2011 to provide insights to delegates during a presentation panel on responsible sourcing of aggregates.

New York, NY – Nine in ten adults (87%) report that they recycle, though only half of adults (51%) recycle every day, according to a national survey of over 1,000 U.S. adults conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of Yesterday’s News. Roughly a third (36%) tend to recycle less frequently, while13% admit that they never recycle.

Montreal, QC – Newly-released research conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of Humane Society International amongst a thousand Newfoundlanders finds that there is interest amongst roughly 1-in-2 (53%) for a government buy-out of the commercial seal hunt.

Toronto, ON – Torontonians have given the green light to Toronto City Council to approve the recommendation of the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee to initially contract out all of the trash collection from the Etobicoke border to Yonge Street, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll released today.

Vancouver, BC – In anticipation of Earth Day on April 22nd, Ipsos Reid conducted the annual 2011 Retailers and the Environment Study among adult British Columbians to assess retailers' actions in helping to preserve and protect the environment.

Toronto, ON – Earth hour participation rates are continuing to decline, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Postmedia News. Asked whether they participated in Earth Hour on Saturday at 8:30pm local time by turning off the lights in their home or place of business for one hour, 36% of Canadians said they turned their lights off, while 8% didn’t turn off their lights but participated in another way. In total, 44% of Canadians participated in Earth Hour in some way, shape or form, down 3 points from last year and down 16 points from 2009. Nearly one in ten (7%) have never heard of this event (unchanged).

Toronto, ON – Many Canadians are beginning the New Year ready to follow-through on resolutions to live happier, more fulfilling lives. A recent Ipsos Reid poll, conducted on behalf of the Nature Conservancy of Canada has found that feeling happy can be as easy as connecting to nature.

New York, NY – A new poll conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of Procter & Gamble Professional shows that nine out of 10 (90 percent) business decision makers surveyed, consider that the issue of sustainability and environmental responsibility is at least somewhat important to their business – including more than half who report it is extremely important (23 percent) or very important (33 percent).

Toronto, ON – One half of Canadian small-business owners (52%) currently have (46%)
or are considering (6%) developing a green plan or environmental policies, according to a new Ipsos Reid
poll conducted on behalf of RBC.

Washington, DC – Even in light of the massive oil leak in the Gulf, Americans are more likely to favor (49%) than oppose (38%) allowing more offshore oil and gas drilling in U.S. waters, according to a new telephone poll of over 1,000 adults conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs. More than one in ten (12%) are unsure.

Montreal, QC – Newly-released research conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of Humane Society International amongst Newfoundlanders licensed to participate in the annual seal hunt finds that there is a general sense that the local fishing and seafood export industry is in a state of decline.

Toronto, ON – Fewer Canadians participated in Earth Hour this year than last year, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Canwest News Service and Global Television. Fewer than half (47%) of Canadians say they participated in Earth Hour, either by turning out their lights for an hour at 8:30pm last Saturday evening (39%) or by contributing in another way (8%). By comparison, six in ten (60%) Canadians participated last year, either by turning out their lights (51%) or in some other fashion (9%).

Toronto, ON – Thinking about the amount of trees Ontario has lost over the past decade due to various reasons including urbanization, infestation, fire and climate change, nine in ten (87%) believe that the amount of trees Ontario loses every year constitutes a ‘serious problem’ (40% very/47% somewhat). Just 13% think it’s not a problem (11% not very serious/2% not at all serious).

Toronto, ON – Canadians water-conservation habits appear to be going down the drain, according to the third annual Canadian Water Attitudes Study commissioned by RBC and Unilever and endorsed by the Canadian Partnership Initiative of the United Nations Water for Life Decade.

New York, NY – A new poll conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of Procter &
Gamble shows that more adults cite saving money than any other reason why they would take measures to
reduce waste, save energy and save water in their home. When asked to select the two most important
reasons for taking environmentally-friendly measures, 64% of 1,000 adults surveyed selected saving money.
Preserving resources for future generations, mentioned by 56% of respondents, follows in importance.

Washington, DC – Just 43% of Americans consider that the world’s temperature has been rising slowly over the past 100 years as a result of human activity, according to a new telephone poll of over 1,000 adults conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs. An additional quarter of adults (24%) acknowledge these rising temperatures, but feel that natural patterns of the earth’s environment is causing this warming. In contrast, 28% are skeptical of global warming all together, saying that they do not think it has been happening.

Calgary, AB – Canada’s oil and gas industry is centered in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin with Alberta accounting for over 80% of our country’s domestic petroleum production. Ipsos Reid recently conducted research with residents of major producing regions / communities within the WCSB to measure public perceptions of the upstream petroleum industry.

Calgary, AB – The subject of electricity transmission has occupied a prominent place in Alberta media throughout much of 2008 and 2009. Ipsos Reid conducted survey based research in three communities at the centre of this issue (Calgary, Sherwood Park and Fort McMurray) to explore the views of local residents on some of the matters at the heart of the ongoing debate.

New York, NY– ‘Green’ or environmentally friendly policies and programs are becoming more top of mind for U.S. consumers when making technology related purchase decisions, but few are aware of specific policies, according to the annual Ipsos Green Technology report. The survey shows that few technology purchasing consumers are aware of specific environmental policies and practices of technology firms, despite the efforts of companies and the accolades in the media.

Toronto, ON – The second annual study of ‘Green’ Financial Services in Canada found that despite a decline in focus away from issues such as the environment, healthcare and education and sustained focus on the economy, Canadians are adopting more ‘Green’ financial services. These services include: ‘Green’ Auto Loans (preferential rates for the purchase of an energy-efficient vehicle), ‘Green’ Savings accounts (accounts earmarked for investing in energy-efficient companies), ‘Green’ Auto insurance (reduced rates for customers driving energy-efficient vehicles) and more. The results are taken from Ipsos-Reid’s ‘Green’ Financial Products and Services, which interviewed 2,209 Canadian adults in a comprehensive survey of the Canadian financial services market.

New York, NY – Six in ten (56%) Americans support (29% strongly/28% somewhat) nuclear power as a way of producing energy, according to a new Ipsos Public Affairs poll conducted for the U.S. Women in Nuclear Conference held in Washington D.C. Conversely, four in ten (39%) oppose (23% strongly/15% somewhat) nuclear power.

New York, NY – A recent study gauging U.S. and UK consumer awareness and attitudes towards Smart Grid Technology found that while most were previously unfamiliar with Smart Grid technology (74% in the U.S. and 90% in the UK), once exposed to a description of Smart Grid Technology, respondents in both countries were receptive to the idea of Smart Grid. Three in five respondents in both the U.S. (64%) and UK (60%) would change their electricity consumption behavior with the adoption of Smart Grid according to a poll conducted by Ipsos for GE.

New York, NY - A recent study conducted by Ipsos Marketing, Consumer Goods shows that global consumers care about the state of the natural world but still relish the conveniences of the modern world. Many are taking the environment into account in their daily behaviors and purchasing decisions, but are weighing the impact on convenience as well.

New York, NY — A clear majority of Americans surveyed by Ipsos say that the U.S. government should not continue to provide subsidies for ethanol production (56% vs. 44% who say it should continue). Similar proportions agree that the production of ethanol should be driven by demand in the marketplace rather than by government subsidies (57% agree) and that the industry should focus more on producing ethanol from non-food crops such as switchgrass (51%).

Calgary, AB – A recent Ipsos Reid study commissioned by the Alberta Council for Environmental Education (ACEE) shows that the majority of Albertans (75%) agree that schools in Alberta should give top priority to providing students with opportunities to do environmental action projects. Support varies by type of action project, with 90% of Albertans saying they would support Kindergarten to Grade 12 students being involved in neighbourhood clean-up, 78% would support students educating others about local environmental issues, and 67% would support students presenting to politicians on an environmental issue.

Vancouver, BC - Many retailers are rethinking their business practices as it relates to the environment, including their plastic bag policies. As such, a new Ipsos Reid study in British Columbia, examines consumers' points-of-views when it comes to retailers and their actions to help preserve and protect the environment.

Vancouver, BC – Ipsos Reid, a sponsor of EPIC – the Sustainable Living Expo, released a poll today, revealing that despite the state of the economy, British Columbians feel the environment takes priority.

Vancouver, BC – A new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Retail BC finds that a retailer's actions to preserve and protect the environment is an important factor in store decision for most British Columbians, but that the percentage to whom it matters hasn't changed in the past year. Three-quarters of British Columbians feel a retailer's environmental actions are important when deciding where to shop on a day-to-day basis (74% with 21% very important and 53% somewhat important). Environmental actions are not of importance to the remaining one-quarter of the province's residents (24% with 19% not very important and 5% not at all important). Very few are unsure of the importance they place (2%). This is statistically the same as results from a similar poll conducted in April 2008, where three-quarters of British Columbians reported that environmental actions are important in their store decision (77% with 24% very important and 53% somewhat important) and two-in-ten do not consider it to be important (22% with 17% not very important and 5% not at all important).

Toronto, ON – In the survey, conducted by Ipsos Reid for Canon Canada, two thirds (66%) of Canada's youth say the current recession is having an impact on them—with a majority (55%) revealing that the economic downturn is affecting the ability of a family member to find a job, or to find one for themselves (51%).

Toronto, ON — Six in ten (60%) Canadians were either in the dark (51%) for Earth Hour or participated in some other way (9%), according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Canwest News Service and Global National. While four in ten (40%) did not participate, Earth Hour appears to have achieved its goal of raising environmental awareness, with three quarters (74%) ‘agreeing’ (21% strongly/52% somewhat) that it got them to think more about what they can do to help the environment, including 59% of those who did not participate in the event. But almost all (96%) Canadians ‘agree’ (70% strongly/26% somewhat) that ‘in order to help the environment we need to do more than turn off our lights for one hour each year’.

Calgary, AB – A recent Ipsos Reid study commissioned by the Alberta Council for Environmental Education (ACEE) shows that the majority of Albertans (79%) agree that it is possible to have a strong economy in Alberta while protecting the environment. Two-thirds (66%) also agree that more government action is needed to solve the environmental problems facing Alberta.

Toronto, ON – March 28, 8pm, will mark Earth Hour, when individuals and business around the world are encouraged to turn off their lights for an hour in order to raise awareness of environmental problems and concerns. According to an Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Coca-Cola, seven in ten (70%) Canadians say that they plan on participating in Earth Hour, up from 59% of Canadians who said they participated last year, according to a post Earth Hour survey also conducted by Ipsos Reid.

Toronto, ON — A majority (53%) of Canadians believe fresh water is Canada’s most important natural resource, according to a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of RBC and Unilever, placing it well ahead of forests (20%), agriculture and farmland (14%), oil (8%), and fisheries (2%).

Toronto, ON – As Canadians and their governments try to figure out how best to move forward in this time of economic recession, many have argued that other important issues have taken a back seat to economic concerns. A new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of the Dominion Institute has revealed that nearly one half (45%) of Canadians ‘agree’ (13% strongly/32% somewhat) that ‘serious action on climate change should wait until the recession is behind us’. Four in ten Canadians (43%) also ‘disagree’ (12% strongly/31% somewhat) that ‘Canada should take serious action on climate change right now, even if it means higher deficits’, meaning that a majority (57%) ‘agrees’ (19% strongly/37% somewhat) with this premise.

Toronto, ON – A new Survey of Ontarians conducted on behalf of the Canadian Cancer Society has revealed that three quarters (76%) of Ontarians believe there are toxic chemicals in their ‘environments’ (shorthand for where one works, lives or plays), while a similar proportion (77%) think they exist in the products that they use. Furthermore, among those who think that these toxic chemicals exist, eight in ten believe those chemicals found in their environments (83%) or products they use (82%) could be harmful to the health of themselves or their family.

New York, NY – As the winter draws near and temperatures drop, a new Ipsos poll conducted on behalf of Plough and Hearth reveals that nearly one half (45%) of American homeowners say they’re ‘concerned’ (16% extremely/29% very) about their ability to pay for heating their home this winter. Only three in ten (28%) are ‘not at all concerned’, and another 26% are ‘not very concerned’.

Ottawa, ON – A new Ipsos Reid poll conducted exclusively on behalf of CanWest News Service and Global Television finds that Stephane Dion’s “Green Shift” carbon tax initiative has taken a seven point tumble in support -- down from 52% in early July when the plan was first introduced to 45% now.

Toronto, ON – It appears that when it comes to their homes, Canadians might be ready to usher in the ‘green’ era. According to a new poll among Canadian home owners conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of Icynene, while nearly all Canadians (95%) agree that it is important for them to reduce their impact on the environment wherever possible, the same portion of the population (96%) agrees that it is important to reduce energy use in their homes to save money.

New York, NY – It appears that when it comes to their homes, Americans might be ready to usher in the ‘green’ era. According to a new poll among American homeowners conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of Icynene, while nine in ten Americans (91%) agree that it is important for them to reduce their impact on the environment wherever possible, nearly all (98%) agree that it is important to reduce energy use in their homes to save money.

Toronto, ON – It seems that when it comes to their buying habits, Canadians are continuing their trend toward “green” products – those which have a reduced impact on the environment. According to a new Ipsos Reid poll, half (53%) of Canadians are buying more “green” products than they were a year ago, while nearly half (46%) say they are purchasing about the same number as last year.

Toronto, ON – It appears that when it comes to their finances, Canadians are ready to go “green”. According to a new study conducted by Ipsos Reid, the trend toward environmental awareness and responsibility is spilling over into new areas, including Canadians’ preferences with their banking.

Toronto, ON – It would appear that as Stephane Dion focuses on selling his ‘Green Shift’ environment plan to Canadians he has a lot of work to do as a full majority don’t recall hearing anything about his plan and of those who do, a majority don’t like their first impression—perhaps seeded, in part, by Conservative Party negative ads and commentary that preceded its unveiling by the Liberal Leader.

Vancouver, BC – A new Ipsos Reid poll in BC reveals that most British Columbians take a retailer’s environmental record into account when deciding where to shop. Three-quarters (77%) of British Columbians say that a retailer’s actions in helping to preserve and protect the environment are either “very important” (24%) or “somewhat important” (53%) in their overall decision of where to shop.

Toronto, ON – The majority of Canadians (52%) think that they are generally making reasonable efforts to conserve water. According to a recent Ipsos Reid poll, conducted on behalf of Unilever, RBC, and the Canadian Partnership Initiative of the UN Water for Life Decade, also found that a mere 6% of Canadians think that consumers represent the biggest threat to Canada’s freshwater supply. Instead, Canadians are likely to blame mass removal of water to the United States (28%) and run-off of pollutants from land to water (19%).

Vancouver, BC – A new Ipsos Reid poll in BC shows that most British Columbians (85%) would give themselves a “B” (48%) or a “C” (37%) for their efforts in helping to preserve and protect the environment. Few (6%) British Columbians would actually award themselves with an “A”; in fact, an equivalent number (6%) grade their behaviour very poorly with a “D” or “F”.

Vancouver, BC – A new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of the Canadian Cancer Society finds that a strong majority of British Columbians agree that cosmetic pesticides used in their community pose a threat to the environment (86% agree), children (81%), pets (81%), and their own personal health (76%). The definition of cosmetic pesticides given to survey respondents was “cosmetic pesticides are used to kill or control weeds, insects, fungi and pests in order to enhance the appearance of private and public lawns and gardens. For example, cosmetic pesticides may be used to get rid of weeds on the lawn or aphids on roses.” Further, three-quarters (76%) of British Columbians would support their provincial government passing legislation that would restrict the use and sale of cosmetic pesticides (47% “strongly support”).

Toronto, ON – Canadians appear to be wary of companies who label their products as being ‘green’, or environmentally friendly, with the results of a poll conducted on behalf of Icynene revealing that two thirds (64%) of Canadians either ‘strongly’ (10%) or ‘somewhat’ agree (54%) that ‘when companies call a product ‘green’ (meaning better for the environment), it is usually just a marketing tactic’. On the other hand, four in ten Canadian ‘completely’ (4%) or ‘somewhat disagree’ (33%) that this is the case.

Toronto, ON – Americas appear to be wary of companies who label their products as being ‘green’, or environmentally friendly, with the results of a poll conducted on behalf of Icynene revealing that seven in ten (70%) Americans either ‘strongly’ (12%) or ‘somewhat’ agree (58%) that ‘when companies call a product ‘green’ (meaning better for the environment), it is usually just a marketing tactic’. On the other hand, three in ten (30%) Americans ‘completely’ (4%) or ‘somewhat disagree’ (26%) that this is the case.

New York, NY – ‘Green’ or environmentally sensitive Tech products and practices are emerging as a new element of Tech brand positioning and consumer consideration, according to survey results recently released by Ipsos.

Calgary, AB — A new Ipsos Reid survey on behalf of Direct Energy finds that more than four in ten residents (42 per cent) of Alberta (45%) and Ontario (41%) say they would pay a premium of 10 per cent or more for products that are environmentally friendly.

Toronto, ON – When trying to ascertain who is best to deal with the current challenges of the growing environmental problems of the world, the results of a new Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Sympatico / MSN find that almost all (91%) Canadians believe that ‘in order to help the environmental, individuals need to take an active role, and not rely on government to solve the problem’. However, somewhat contradictorily, three quarters (72%) of Canadians also believe that, ‘it is the responsibility of the government to fix the environmental problems. With solid majorities supporting both points of view, it is suggested that perhaps Canadians feel that both they and their governments are jointly responsible for fixing environmental problems.

Toronto, ON – A new poll conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of Icynene finds that most Canadians (79%) claim to have taken ‘some’ (63%) or ‘a lot’ (16%) of action in their own homes to reduce greenhouse gasses. For example, nearly four in ten (38%) homeowners say they have added insulation in the past two years to help reduce energy consumption, and one in ten (13%) say they intend to add it this upcoming summer.

Toronto, ON – A new poll conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of Icynene finds that two thirds (64%) claim to have taken ‘some’ (54%) or ‘a lot’ (11%) of action in their own homes to reduce greenhouse gasses. For example, one third (32%) of homeowners say they have added insulation in the past two years to help reduce energy consumption, and 14% say they intend to add it this upcoming summer.

Calgary, AB - A new Ipsos Reid poll shows that 44% of Canadians are very concerned (82% concerned overall) with Canada’s energy supply for the future, on par with concern for the Education system (45% Very Concerned, 82% overall) and ahead of Canada’s Economy (38% Very Concerned, 81% overall), but still trailing concern for the Healthcare System (61% Very Concerned, 92% overall) and Environment and Pollution (56% Very Concerned, 91% overall).

Toronto, ON – In response to the Conservative Government’s new climate-change initiative, a new Ipsos Reid Poll conducted on behalf of CanWest Global reveals that a majority (61%) of Canadians think that the Tory plan ‘does not go far enough or move with enough urgency to make a meaningful contribution to the global effort to fight climate change’. Conversely, only one third (32%) say that this plan ‘will ensure that Canada moves quickly and contributes in a meaningful way to the global effort to fight climate change’. Stated plainly, half (52%) of Canadians think that the Government’s initiative is ‘a bad plan for dealing with climate change’.

Toronto, ON – A new Ipsos Reid/President's Choice survey reveals that the majority of Canadians (92%) feel personally responsible for preserving and protecting the environment in their province, yet only six in ten would give themselves an "A" (12%) or a "B" (48%) on their own personal performance.

Toronto, ON – While many assume that teenagers today are pitching in and doing what they can to be environmentally friendly, it appears that many are actually taking a more laid back approach. According to a new Ipsos Reid survey released today on behalf of Canon Canada, it seems that there is a difference between what Canadian teens think about the environment and the actions they are taking to be more environmentally friendly. Just 2 in 10 (19%) teens in Canada consider themselves to be ‘green fiends,’ – people who recycle everything, conserve energy and encourage others to do the same. Alternatively, three-quarters (74%) say that they are ‘environmentally laid back’: they do what they can, but are not obsessed with the environment. And 1 in 10 (7%) even consider themselves to be an ‘environmental cynic’ and do not get involved in helping the environment at all.

New York, NY – Amid growing concerns about climate change, Americans are increasingly taking action to reduce their environmental footprint. Six-in-ten adults (61%) have sent items to be recycled in the past 12 months, a 6-percentage-point increase from last summer; more than half (58%) have also chosen products with recycled content; and just under half (44%) have taken steps to be more energy-efficient at home.

Calgary, AB – A new Ipsos Reid survey provided exclusively to CanWest Global Television shows that the intensity amongst Canadians who believe it's possible to increase energy supplies and protect the environment at the same time has risen a significant 18 points since the first sounding in 2001.